SPAN Walk remembers lost loved ones at in-person return

GEELONG and district residents gathered at Johnstone Park as for the first time in three years to take part in Geelong’s SPAN Suicide Awareness Walk.

Ran virtually the past two years due to COVID-19, organisers from Hope Bereavement Care and Suicide Prevention Awareness Network (SPAN) were grateful to host an in-person event in 2022.

SPAN committee member and chairperson Ben LeFevre said originally the walk was held to raise awareness for suicide a decade ago, but has learnt it has become much more over the years.

“For each person affected by suicide this day acts as a memorial for them, it’s a day of connecting and finding a safe space where we can all talk about our loved ones who have died by suicide,” Mr LeFevre said.

Ben LeFevre conducting a speech during proceedings.

Mr LeFevre knows first-hand the impact of losing a loved one to suicide, losing his cousin to suicide in 2008 and close friends a year later in 2009.

Following the tragic events, Mr LeFevre was motivated to do research into depression and took part in his first SPAN walk.

Dogs were in attendance on the day playing their own role in allowing people to remember loved ones.

LeFevre joined SPAN’s committee after his first walk and has been a major local advocate for suicide prevention ever since.

Hundreds of residents from around the region attended Sunday’s walk, where names of lost loved ones were read out, before family members gathered in a circular formation beside City Hall to remember their loved ones.

Organisers of Sunday’s SPAN Suicide Awareness Walk beside City Hall. Back row: Salli Hickford, Elana Drayton, Paula Bond, Sarah Clarke, Michael Nolan Front row: John Pigott, Barb Kosic and Ben LeFevre

Speeches were made by Mr LeFevre and fellow committee member Michael Nolan, before a flock of doves were released.

Attendees then undertook a 1.2km walk around Geelong’s CBD to conclude the day.

Hope Bereavement Care’s executive officer Salli Hickford said the previous two years of virtual walks were successful, but returning to an in-person event provided a more personal opportunity for individuals to remember lost loved ones.

Those in attendace gathered in a united formation to remember loved ones lost to suicide.

“The moment when names are read out and people hold hands with one another is a really powerful moment, especially once the doves are released,” Ms Hickford said.

“The memorial board still has way too many names on it, but today (Sunday) was great to see people together and meet those who have been affected.”

If you or anyone you know who is struggling with the loss of a loved one, Hope Bereavement can be contacted on 03 4215 3358 or at [email protected]

If you need help, phone Lifeline Australia on 13 11 14, headspace on 1800 650 890 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.